Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a prosperous, secure, and inclusive future as the state marks its 50th anniversary.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the “Oyo State at 50” celebration held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the governor described the golden jubilee as both a moment of celebration and an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to the state’s long-term development.
Makinde said the anniversary represents 50 years of identity, resilience, sacrifice and progress, noting that the milestone is deeply personal to him, having been shaped by the state throughout his life.
He assured residents that his government remains focused on ensuring that the next five decades deliver greater prosperity, fairness, dignity and hope for all citizens.
The governor pledged to build a competitive economy that creates jobs, attracts investment and expands opportunities, while strengthening infrastructure, education and institutions capable of enduring beyond any administration.
According to him, Oyo State is not only celebrating its past achievements but also deliberately laying a solid foundation for the future through peace, security, good governance, and fiscal responsibility.
“From strengthening our economy to expanding infrastructure, from improving education and healthcare to restoring fiscal discipline and public trust, Oyo State has moved from promises to performance and from potential to measurable progress,” Makinde said. “But today is not only about honouring the past; it is about securing the next 50 years.”
He further committed the state to remaining safe, stable, and open for business, stressing that sustainable growth and strong institutions are central to his administration’s vision.
In his goodwill message, a former governor of the state and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, commended past military and civilian administrators, political leaders, and other prominent citizens for their sacrifices, which he said shaped the fortunes of Oyo State.
Other goodwill messages were delivered by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; the Chief Judge of the state, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Hon. Justice R. B. Akintola; Chairman of Bovas Group, Architect Segun Bamidele; and Chief (Mrs) Elizabeth Akinyele. They praised Governor Makinde’s administration for prioritising workers’ and pensioners’ welfare, infrastructure development, economic expansion, and security, noting that these efforts have sustained Oyo State’s reputation as a pacesetter.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyo State at 50 Anniversary Committee and former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, said the celebration was an opportunity to recognise the contributions of past leaders who laid foundations in governance, education, agriculture, infrastructure and public service.
He described Makinde’s leadership as people-centred and a model of good governance, adding that the state is witnessing rapid transformation at the sub-national level.
He urged residents to look ahead to a future driven by industrialisation, infrastructure expansion, and policy stability.
The event attracted past and present leaders of the state, members of the House of Representatives, commissioners, permanent secretaries, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security chiefs, and labour union leaders.
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